Proper Sword Terminology - Middle Ages

Since using proper terminology is important to me, I thought I would go over a few of the proper terms used for discussing swords. Though, keep in mind that it is more important that you use terms your peers are familiar with, even if they are not the same as the ones I am describing here. However, as far as I know these are the proper terms used by researchers in the field of medieval weaponry

Longsword

This one's a bit of a blanket term, as it has been used differently in different civilizations. It generally referred to any sword that was longer bladed than other contemporary swords. In medieval Europe the term was applied to the two handed swords that were also known as...

Bastard Sword

These swords were weapons that could be used with either one or two hands, though the most effective way of using them was with both hands, as the length of the blade made single handed wielding awkward. There are several different opinions as to the source of the name "Bastard Sword." Some say that it was because the sword was neither a two handed, nor a single handed weapon, but something in the middle.

Keep in mind that generally Bastard and Longswords were names to describe the same type of weapon. Both are two handed weapons that can be used in one hand, but were generally wielded with two hands.

Arming Sword

This is the blade that most people think of when they think of knightly swords. It preceded the long and bastard swords, but was still commonly used well into the development of two handed swords. It was shorter than most other European swords, and was used with an off hand weapon, a shield, or a buckler. Or, in some cases, a beer mug.

Great Sword

When referring to European weapons the Great Sword was synonymous with what was also called the Zweihänder. The Great Sword could only be used. The heaviest of the European swords, it usually clocked in at around five pounds.

Those are the basics, next I will go over the terminology used during the renaissance period.